Prader-Willi syndrome: effect of group home placement on obese patients with diabetes.

Morbid obesity and type II diabetes, common complications of Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), are difficult to manage in the home setting. We assessed the effect of specialized group home placement on these complications in eight individuals with PWS, all of whom were obese and four of whom had type II diabetes. The group home provided diet restriction and control, a monitored exercise program, and a structured environment. Twelve months after admission, average weight loss in the eight individuals was 17.0 kg. Of the four with diabetes, all achieved euglycemia, and insulin and oral hypoglycemic doses were greatly reduced or discontinued. For individuals with PWS who are obese and have type II diabetes, placement in specialized group homes can be highly effective in controlling weight and diabetes.